We say Boring, solid and thoroughly decent The Auris is all about reliability and value for money. Choose hybrid for running costs.Performance 1.4-litre 96bhp feels underpowered but the 1.6-litre petrol 122bhp is punchier. The 124bhp 2.0 diesel is torquey and a better bet than the 2.2-litre 175bhp oil-burner. All engines need to be pushed for performance.Emissions All eyes focus on the 1.8-litre hybrid drivetrain when it comes to emissions and fuel economy with the Auris. The hybrid system allows for a combined cycle fuel economy of 74mpg and excellent CO2 emissions of just 89g/km. With 134bhp at its disposal it’s also perky as well.Driving Small hatchbacks are generally quite fun to drive with lots of control around corners and accurate steering. That’s not the case with the Auris which is straightforward to drive but boring, too. There’s not much roll around corners and plenty of grip but the steering feels disconnected and not particularly accurate which can send you to sleep a bit.Feel All engines in the range can be a bit noisy and they generally need working hard so refinement is under par in the main. It’s more of a cruiser than a driver’s car with a comfortable suspension setup.Space The Auris’s totally flat floor makes it feel much bigger than it is. It also frees up some extra leg and headroom for passengers in the front and rear. There’s a small 233-litre boot at the rear and there are much more practical options available on the market. The rear seats don’t fold flat either.Equipment Air-conditioning, electric front windows and mirrors and remote central locking are standard. T3 and TR models add alloys, electric rear windows and steering-wheel stereo controls. T Spirit and T180 add cruise control.Price The Auris doesn’t come cheap with prices starting from around £15,000 and peaking at almost £23,000. Residuals and running costs should be good though, particularly with the hybrid version.Quality Should be reliable and hard-wearing but the Auris won't lead its class in terms of interior quality. Instead solidity and reliability is preferred over style and interest. The hybrid does come with some interesting displays though.Safety Every Auris comes with front, side and curtain airbags and an airbag for the driver's knees. Stability control is an option. 5 stars for adult occupancy.Pros The Auris is a decent car. In hybrid form it’s economical and efficient, slashing running costs. It’s also a Toyota so it’s going to be incredibly reliable and solid, too.Cons Performance is generally poor across the Auris range and it’s a pretty boring car to drive and ride in. It also fails to grab the eye in terms of style and design, too.Alternatives Vauxhall Astra, Ford Focus, Renault Megane, Volkswagen Golf, Kia ceed, Citroen C4, Honda Civic
